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Ankle replacement-Star ankle replacement (revision of mensical component)

Learn the Ankle replacement-Star ankle replacement (revision of mensical component) surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Ankle replacement-Star ankle replacement (revision of mensical component) surgical procedure.

The polyethylene bearing of a mobile bearing ankle replacement may fracture, wear or dislocate.

If this happens, the whole ankle replacement may need to be revised, or just the meniscal bearing – mindful of the fact that some wear may also have occurred to the metal surfaces of talar and tibial components.

It is important to identify any precipitating factors which may have caused the meniscus to fail (such as ankle instability or component malalignment) and to correct these at the same time as revising the bearing.

For those undertaking ankle replacement surgery the ability to identify and deal with its potential complications (both in the short and longer  term ) should be a consideration.

The following operation demonstrates my technique for managing the isolated failure of a meniscal component of a STAR ankle replacement , one of the implants with the longest track record.

Author: Paul Cooke FRCS 

Institution :The Nuffield Orthopaedic centre , Oxford ,UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

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Lernen Sie die chirurgische Technik der Sprunggelenkersatz-Revision mit dem Wright Invision Sprunggelenkersatzsystem mit schrittweisen Anweisungen auf OrthOracle. Unsere E-Learning-Plattform enthält hochauflösende Bilder und eine zertifizierte Fortbildung (CME) des chirurgischen Verfahrens der Sprunggelenkersatz-Revision mit dem Wright Invision Sprunggelenkersatzsystem.

Mit der zunehmenden Anzahl von Operationen zur totalen Sprunggelenkendoprothetik (TAA) weltweit ist zu erwarten, dass wir häufiger und wahrscheinlich komplexere Fälle von Versagenssituationen erleben werden. Das Versagen von Sprunggelenkersatzimplantaten tritt aufgrund verschiedener Ursachen auf, und einige Risiken für ein frühzeitiges Versagen wurden in der Literatur identifiziert, Gadd et al. Im Laufe der Zeit kann davon ausgegangen werden, dass Abnutzung eine Zytokinreaktion und Knochenlyse hervorruft, was zu Implantatmigration und Zystenbildung führt. Dieser Versagensmodus wird häufiger bei bestimmten Typen von TAA beobachtet, wobei das bekannteste Beispiel das mittlerweile zurückgezogene AES-System ist, das in einigen Serien massive Osteolyse verursachte.

Die Ursprünge von Zystenbildung und Lockerung wurden ausgiebig diskutiert. Rodriguez et al. (2010) hypothetisierten, dass die Zystenbildung mit der Pumpaktion zusammenhängen könnte, die zu synovialer Einschließung führt. Bonnin et al. (2011) hingegen waren der Meinung, dass einige der Zysten aus bereits vorhandenen arthritischen Zysten entstanden sein könnten. Jacobs et al. (2006) vermuteten, dass die Zystenbildung mit einer Überlastung eines lokalen afferenten Transportsystems mit Abriebpartikeln zusammenhängen könnte, was zu einer Ansammlung von Abriebpartikeln im periprothetischen Gewebe führt. Schließlich konnten einige Autoren in Rückgewinnungsproben aus den Zysten keine signifikanten Abriebpartikel finden, aber einige (Koivu et al.) stellten fest, dass es zu einer Aktivierung einer entzündlichen Kaskade kommt und schlossen daraus, dass es eine erhöhte Expression des Rezeptors für fortgeschrittene Glykierungsendprodukte und anderer “Gefahr-Signale” gibt, die zur Entzündung um die Implantate, zur Bildung multilokulärer Zysten und zur Osteolyse bei fehlgeschlagenen TAA-Implantaten beitragen könnten.

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Ankle replacement-Revision using Wright Invision Ankle replacement system

Learn the Ankle replacement-Revision using Wright Invision Ankle replacement system surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Ankle replacement-Revision using Wright Invision Ankle replacement system surgical procedure.

With increasing numbers of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) operations being carried out worldwide it can be expected that we are going to encounter more frequent and probably more complex failure situations. Failure of ankle replacements occurs due to a variety of causes and some risks for early failure have been established in the literature, Gadd et al. Over time it can be considered that wear will generate a cytokine response and bone lysis, leading to implant migration and cyst formation. This mode of failure is more frequently seen in certain makes of TAA with the best know example being the now withdrawn AES system which generated massive osteolysis in some series .

The origin of cysts and loosening has been widely debated. Rodriguez et al. (2010) hypothesized that cyst formation may be related to pump action leading to synovial inclusion. However Bonnin et al. (2011) felt that some of the cysts may have evolved from pre-existing arthritic cysts. Jacobs et al. (2006) hypothesized that cyst formation may be related to overwhelming of a local afferent transport mechanism with wear particles, resulting in an accumulation of wear particles in periprosthetic tissue. Finally repeatedly authors have failed to find significant wear particles in retrieval specimens from the cysts but some (Koivu et al) have found that there is a switching on of an inflammatory cascade concluding that there is an increased expression of ‘high-mobility group box 1’ receptor for advanced glycation end product and other ‘danger signals’ which could contribute to inflammation around the implants, multilocular cyst formation, and osteolysis in failed TAA implants

The Mobility TAA (DePuy) was launched in 2003 and was  withdrawn in June 2014 . There have been no widespread publications of osteolysis though persistent medial pain is reported in some patients.

For failed TAA the commonest option is to convert the arthroplasty to an arthrodesis, which is an accepted and successful technique. Bone graft is often used from the fibula, iliac crest, allograft or using bone substitutes  to fill the resulting bone void from where the implant has been removed. If union occurs then pain relief will usually follow, but so does stiffness. If the bone loss is significant then the subtalar joint will often also be sacrificed with even greater loss of motion and functional deficit. Preservation of the subtalar joint is technically possible, usually requiring grafting of the talar defect and plate fixation of the ankle joint, if enough talar bone stock remains.

The alternative, in order to preserve motion, is to convert the failed arthroplasty to a revision joint replacement. Specific equipment has now come on to the market to facilitate this. The most tried and tested of these is the InBone system from Wright Medical Technologies, USA. There are publications that support its efficacy at early follow up (Devries, et al). The InBone is a fixed point, jig driven system using image intensification throughout in order to position the revision replacement in a reliable orientation. The system has been added to in the InVision System which also gives metallic solutions to bone loss by use of bulkier tibial trays and talar domes and with the addition of a flat plate to the talus, allowing bridging of cyst defects in the talus. The plate has augments which can be added to the plantar talar surface, though they are limited by their position.

Detailed is a complex  revision of a Mobile bearing De Puy Mobility Total Ankle Arthroplasty (which failed due to cyst formation) revised to a fixed bearing InVision Ankle replacement. The case is complicated by bony deficiency of the talus and fracture of the medial malleolus both of which are treated and discussed.

Gadd RJ, Barwick TW, Paling E, Davies MB, Blundell CM. Assessment of a three-grade classification of complications in total ankle replacement. Foot Ankle Int. 2014;35(5):434-437.

Kokkonen A, Ikavalko M, Tiihonen R, et al. High rate of osteolytic lesions in medium-term followup after the AES total ankle replacement. Foot Ankle Int. 2011 Feb;32(2):168-75.

Author : Mr Chris Blundell FRCS (Tr & Orth)

Institution :The Northern general hospital ,Sheffield ,UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

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Ankle Replacement: Salto Total Ankle replacement (Integra)

Learn the Ankle Replacement: Salto Total Ankle replacement (Integra) surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Ankle Replacement: Salto Total Ankle replacement (Integra) surgical procedure.

Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is becoming more common and is a reliable alternative to ankle fusion, for end stage ankle arthritis.  In the UK, the age groups are similar to that of other arthroplasties – being routinely performed in the over 60’s and, in younger patients only under certain circumstances.

There are many new types of ankle replacement on the market and it is the largest growth area in arthroplasty manufacture. However only a few implants have published results over 5 years, and the benchmark used to judge lower limb arthroplasty is more commonly 10 years   Therefore, it’s important to select the type of ankle replacement carefully.  Of the longer term studies currently in publication, the survivorship of the better implants matches that of knee replacements over this time frame.

The replacement is very similar to a total knee replacement, with modular (3 part) or fixed bearing (2 part) options.  The curved metal dome of the talar implant and the flat plafond of the tibial implant are separated by an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene insert, that conforms on each of its surfaces to these two different geometries.

The TAA is inserted through an anterior approach in nearly all cases and there are a wide variety of techniques and jigs for preparing the joint, with no one system unequivocally superior.

An ankle replacement is a complex procedure,  performed in a restricted anatomical region.  There is only a small margin for error with bone resection as well as a poorer wound healing environment than either a hip or knee replacement. There is a long learning curve and higher complication rates, than with hip or knee replacements with the volume of suitable cases being low – approximately 1% of the numbers of knee replacements being performed in the UK.

The functional outcomes, when comparing ankle replacement and ankle fusion, show understandable improvements in the range of movement but little difference in function or levels of pain.

Previously, the surgical complications were thought to be much higher in ankle arthroplasty, but recent studies shown that the complication rates are now very similar when compared to open arthrodesis.

As with all arthroplasties, the longevity and wear of the implant needs to be considered carefully, especially in younger patients. Current evidence though shows high success rates of conversion of a failed ankle replacement to a fusion, thereby alleviating some of this concern.

The decision whether to perform an ankle fusion or ankle replacement remains very individualised, depending on the experience of the surgeon and multiple patient factors, including age and especially the health and vascularity of the local soft tissues. Certainly, pre-existing arthritis in the surrounding hindfoot joints is a potential contra-indication to isolated ankle arthrodesis and a solid indication for ankle arthroplasty.

The Salto total ankle replacement has a 17 year track record, and is an implant that I have found reliable with jigging that aids reproducible implantation.   Specific features that differentiate it are various:
An anatomical talar design with differing medial and lateral curvatures – this replicates the anatomical curvature of the normal talus (many other implants don’t have this anatomical design) and better tribology.
It is a 3 part modular design, where the meniscal insert is mobile and self-centering, which I believe positions it more accurately at the mechanical axis of the joint.  On first weightbearing, the implant should “self-centre”
Its implantation, although more complex than some other ankle replacements,  provides the ability to make multiple fine adjustments for length, translation and rotation of the jigs. This gives the surgeon optimal accuracy for joint positioning
The design of the integration surfaces also result in very good primary stability upon implantation, which further improves with osseo-integration.

OrthOracle readers will also find the following associated instructional techniques of interest:

Ankle replacement-Revision using Wright Invision Ankle replacement system

Ankle replacement-Wright Infinity ankle replacement

Ankle replacement-Wright Prophecy

Ankle replacement-Star ankle replacement (revision of mensical component)

Ankle Replacement-BOX total ankle replacement (MatOrtho)

Author: Pete Rosenfeld FRCS(Tr & Orth)

Institution: St Marys Hospital & The Fortius clinic, London, UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

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Ankle Replacement-BOX total ankle replacement (MatOrtho)

Learn the Ankle Replacement-BOX total ankle replacement (MatOrtho) surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Ankle Replacement-BOX total ankle replacement (MatOrtho) surgical procedure.

Ankle replacement has been available as an intervention for ankle arthritis since the 1970s. The initial implants were engineered on the assumption that the human ankle joint functioned as a true hinge . They were therefore designed only to allow uniplanar movement (plantar and dorsiflexion) and comprised just 2 components which were mechanically linked. The ankle  joints they were implanted into however also functioned with a degree of rotation which had to occur at the weakest point in the “mechanism”. Given the robustness of the implanted ankle hinges this transpired to be the implant/joint interface which therefore led invariably to early implant failure.

The next generation of ankle replacements  used a 3 component design, in which the Tibial and Talar components were linked by a UHMW polyethylene meniscus which allowed rotation to occur within the joint itself. These ‘mobile-bearing’ prostheses used the congruity of the ‘articulating’ surfaces, to reduce the constrained forces and overcome the high contact stresses resulting in a reduction in polyethylene wear and mechanical loosening of the fixed components. These initial replacements whose results still define what longevity an ankle replacement should attain are the STAR , Beuchal-Pappas and Salto implants. Advancements have been made in the instrumentation and reproducibility of implantation. In general their 10 year survivorships are lower than reported for hip and knee replacements  UK National Joint Registry survival rates are now in the region of 80 percent.

Total ankle replacement is generally not be recommended for younger or higher demand patients due to concerns of  longevity due to accelerated wear of the implant, the exception being patients with severe poly-articular inflammatory arthropathy.

The BOX (Bologna-Oxford) ankle manufactured by MatOrth is a three component prosthesis. The Box ankle replacement prosthesis has been designed to maximise congruency throughout the arc of motion, aiming to mimic normal ankle biomechanics. The bearing surface of the tibial component has a subtle curve in the coronal plane to accommodate for varus/ valgus force through the talo-crural joint.  Biomechanical modelling has demonstrated both rolling and sliding motions take place at the talocrural joint. In theory, full congruence should reduce wear by avoiding edge-loading. Similar to the STAR prosthesis, two anchorage bars on the tibial platform of the BOX ankle replacement provide stable primary fixation to the tibial bone. A precisely cut talar component allows a good press fit of the talar component, which is further stabilised with two vertical pegs.

Primary stability of the Box ankle replacement components reduces micromotion assisting the circumstances  necessary to provide reliable bone ingrowth.

Readers will also find the following techniques of interest:

Ankle replacement-Revision using Wright Invision Ankle replacement system

Ankle replacement-Wright Infinity ankle replacement

Ankle replacement-Wright Prophecy

Ankle replacement-Star ankle replacement (revision of mensical component)

Ankle Replacement -De Puy Mobility

Author: Nick Cullen FRCS (Tr & Orth)

Institution: The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, London, UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

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Lernen Sie die chirurgische Technik der Pilonfraktur: Interne Fixierung unter Verwendung einer Stryker AxSOS 3Ti-Platte mit schrittweisen Anweisungen auf OrthOracle. Unsere E-Learning-Plattform enthält hochauflösende Bilder und eine zertifizierte Fortbildung (CME) des chirurgischen Verfahrens der Pilonfraktur: Interne Fixierung unter Verwendung einer Stryker AxSOS 3Ti-Platte.

Pilonfrakturen sind Frakturen des distalen Tibiaplafonds und sind per Definition intraartikulär und in einem belasteten Gelenk, was sie zu schweren und oft lebensverändernden Frakturen macht. Die Fraktur entsteht durch eine Mischung aus Scher- und Druckbelastungen auf die distale Tibiametaphyse.

Pilonfrakturen machen zwischen 5 und 10 % aller Frakturen der unteren Extremität aus und sind aufgrund der beteiligten Energie mit einer hohen (15-55 %) Komplikationsrate verbunden. Eine erhebliche Rotationskraft kann auch distale Tibiafrakturen verursachen, die den Plafond einbeziehen, und dies sind ebenfalls Pilonfrakturen. Dieser Mechanismus hat jedoch normalerweise weniger schwere Schädigungen des Weichgewebes und weniger Kompromisse in Bezug auf die Gelenkfläche hinsichtlich Fragmentierung und Knorpelschäden.

Der häufigste Verletzungsmechanismus ist ein Sturz aus großer Höhe, und dieser Fall demonstriert dies, nachdem er durch einen 4 Meter hohen Sturz auf Beton durch ein schwaches Dach verursacht wurde.

Die große Debatte besteht darin, wann eine offene Repositionsinterne Fixierung (ORIF) oder eine minimalinvasive Plattenosteosynthese (MIPO) verwendet werden soll und wann ein externes Fixationsgestell (wie ein Ilizarov oder ein anderes Drahtkonstrukt) als definitive Behandlung eingesetzt werden soll. In meinen Händen und in einer Einheit mit ausgezeichneten Fertigkeiten in der Drahtfixation vor Ort behandeln wir in der Regel diejenigen Fälle mit sehr schweren Weichteilschäden oder bei denen die Gelenkfläche stark fragmentiert ist, mit einem Gestell. Die Fälle, bei denen die Grad der Gelenkfragmentierung weniger schwerwiegend ist, werden in der Regel mit Plattenfixierung behandelt, wie es bei dem hier vorgestellten Fall der Fall war.

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Pilon fracture: Internal fixation using Stryker AxSOS 3Ti plate

Learn the Pilon fracture: Internal fixation using Stryker AxSOS 3Ti plate surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Pilon fracture: Internal fixation using Stryker AxSOS 3Ti plate surgical procedure.

Pilon fractures are fractures of the distal tibial plafond and by definition are intra-articular and in a load bearing joint, this renders them serious and often life changing fractures. The fracture is sustained by a mixture of shear and compressive loads to the distal tibial metaphysis.

Pilon fractures make up between 5 and 10% of all lower limb fractures and because of the energy involved are associated with a high (15 – 55%) complication rate. Significant rotational force can also cause distal tibial fractures which involve the plafond and these are also pilon fractures. This mechanism though usually has less severe soft tissue damage and less compromise to the articular surface in terms of comminution and cartilage damage.

The most frequent mechanism of injury is a fall from height and this case demonstrates this , being sustained after a 4 metre fall onto concrete through a weak roof .

The big debate is when to use ORIF or minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO), and when to use an external fixation frame (such as an Ilizarov or other fine wire construct) as definitive treatment. In my hands and working in a unit with excellent fine wire fixation skills locally we tend to treat those cases where there is very severe soft tissue damage or where the articular surface is grossly comminuted with a frame. Those cases where the degree of articular comminution is less severe are usually treated with plate fixation as was the case presented here.

OrthOracle readers will also find the following instructional operative techniques of use:

Pilon fracture: C-type fixed using Smith and Nephew EVOS small fragment system.

Pilon Fracture: C-type fixed with Stryker AxSOS 3 Periarticular Plating System

Pilon fracture: Internal fixation using Stryker AxSOS 3Ti plate.

Ankle fracture: Arthrex tightrope for acute syndesmotic injury and Stryker Variax plate for fibula fracture

Ankle fracture : Fibula pro-tibia fixation technique with Stryker Variax plate.

Ankle fracture: Medial malleolar fixation with ASNIS screws

Ankle fracture: Postero-lateral plating of pronation-external rotation ankle fracture (posterior malleolus))

Ankle fracture: Lateral malleolar fixation using Acumed Fibula Rod System

Author: Mr Chris Blundell FRDS (Tr & Orth)

Institution: IThe Northern General Hospital, Sheffield, UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

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Lernen Sie die chirurgische Technik der Sprunggelenkfraktur: Fixation des hinteren Malleolus unter Verwendung eines posteriomedialen Zugangs mit schrittweisen Anweisungen auf OrthOracle. Unsere E-Learning-Plattform enthält hochauflösende Bilder und eine zertifizierte Fortbildung (CME) des chirurgischen Verfahrens der Sprunggelenkfraktur: Fixation des hinteren Malleolus unter Verwendung eines posteriomedialen Zugangs.

Sprunggelenkfrakturen mit Beteiligung des hinteren Malleolus gelten als mit einem schlechteren Ergebnis verbunden, jedoch sind das Management und die Indikationen für die Fixierung des hinteren Malleolus noch unzureichend definiert. Die Fixierung von hinteren Malleolusfrakturen wurde erstmals von Lounsbury und Metz im Jahr 1922 beschrieben, die einen extensilen medialen Zugang verwendeten, um große hintere Fragmente mit einem Knochenstift zu fixieren. Die traditionelle Lehre empfahl anschließend die Fixierung von hinteren Malleolusfragmenten basierend auf ihrer Größe, wenn sie auf einem seitlichen Röntgenbild beurteilt wurden, wobei die Fixierung für Fragmente empfohlen wurde, die ein Viertel oder ein Drittel der Gelenkfläche darstellen.

In letzter Zeit hat es einen Paradigmenwechsel in der Behandlung von hinteren Malleolusfrakturen gegeben, da erkannt wurde, dass die Größe des hinteren Malleolusfragments allein nicht der einzige Prädiktor für das Ergebnis ist. Faktoren wie Gelenkkongruenz, hintere Stabilität des Gelenks und Bandstabilität des Sprunggelenks sind ebenfalls wichtige Bestimmer des Ergebnisses.

Original Intro:

Ankle fracture: Posterior malleolar fixation using a posteromedial approach

Learn the Ankle fracture: Posterior malleolar fixation using a posteromedial approach surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Ankle fracture: Posterior malleolar fixation using a posteromedial approach surgical procedure.

Ankle fractures with involvement of the posterior malleolus are recognised as having a poorer outcome however the management and indications for fixation of the posterior malleolus remain poorly defined. Fixation of posterior malleolar fractures was first described by Lounsbury and Metz in 1922 who used an extensile medial approach to fix large posterior fragments with a bone peg. Traditional teaching subsequently advocated fixation of posterior malleolar fragments based on their size when assessed on a lateral radiograph with fixation being recommended for fragments representing either a quarter or a third of the articular surface.

Recently there has been a paradigm shift in treatment of posterior malleolar fractures as it has become recognised that the size of the posterior malleolar fragment alone is not the only predictor of outcome. Factors such as articular congruence, posterior stability of the joint and ligamentous stability of the ankle are also important determinants of outcome.

There are a number of classifications describing the posterior malleolus however most are a development of that described by Haraguchi, dividing them into three types based on the appearance on axial CT.  The Haraguchi type 1 injury is a large posterolateral fragment involving the posterior syndesmotic ligament,   a Haraguchi type 2 posterior malleolar fracture extends medially and often has two distinct fragments: posterior and posteromedial with the posteromedial fragment extending to involve the posterior colliculus of the medial malleolus and thus the attachment of the deep deltoid can be rendered unstable by this fragment.  A type 3 injury is a sleeve avulsion of the posterior syndesmotic ligament, this pattern is usually not amenable to fixation and syndesmotic stability is achieved indirectly with syndesmotic screws or equivalent.

Surgical fixation of the posterior malleolus can be performed by a number of approaches.  Traditionally it was achieved with the patient in a supine position, indirect reduction of the fragment and fixation with screws inserted from anterior to posterior to capture the fragment.  It is increasingly recognised however that direct fixation of the fragment via a posterior approach is biomechanically superior.

The most common posterior approach is the posterolateral with an interval between the peronei and flexor hallucis longus, this affords good visualisation of the posterolateral fragment (Haraguchi 1) and also enables fixation of the fibula fracture via the same incision in most cases.  This approach however does not allow fixation of posterior malleolar fractures with medial extension and thus in my hands Haraguchi type 2 fractures are often better fixed via a posteromedial approach.  This can be performed in a variety of ways, often via the bed of tibialis posterior.  In this technique I describe an approach which allows fixation the posteromedial and posterolateral fragments via the same incision utilising windows either side of the posterior neurovascular bundle.

OrthOracle readers will also find the following associated instructional techniques of interest:

Ankle fracture: Postero-lateral plating of pronation-external rotation ankle fracture (posterior malleolus))

Posterior ankle decompression- Open technique

Tarsal tunnel decompression (for tarsal tunnel syndrome)

Ankle fracture: Medial malleolar fixation with ASNIS screws

Ankle fracture : Fibula pro-tibia fixation technique with Stryker Variax plate.

Ankle fracture: Lateral malleolar fixation using Acumed Fibula Rod System

Ankle fracture: Arthrex tightrope for acute syndesmotic injury and Stryker Variax plate for fibula fracture

Author: Paul Fenton, FRCS (Tr & Orth)

Institution: The Queen Elisabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

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Lernen Sie die chirurgische Technik der Sprunggelenkfraktur: Arthrex TightRope für akute Syndesmosenverletzung und Stryker Variax-Platte für Fibulafraktur mit schrittweisen Anweisungen auf OrthOracle. Unsere E-Learning-Plattform enthält hochauflösende Bilder und eine zertifizierte Fortbildung (CME) des chirurgischen Verfahrens der Sprunggelenkfraktur: Arthrex TightRope für akute Syndesmosenverletzung und Stryker Variax-Platte für Fibulafraktur.

Die distale Tibiofibulare Syndesmose ist ein einzigartiges syndesmotisches Gelenk, das durch eine Vielzahl von Bändern kraftvoll verbunden ist, um die Integrität des Sprunggelenks zu erhalten. Die distale Anatomie der beiden Knochen ist so gestaltet, dass die mediale Oberfläche der distalen Fibula in eine Rille auf der lateralen Oberfläche der distalen Tibia passt, die als Incisura fibularis bezeichnet wird und diesem Gelenk die knöcherne Stabilität bietet. Der vordere Teil dieses Gelenks wird durch das vordere untere distale Tibiofibulare Band (AITFL), der hintere Aspekt durch das hintere untere distale Tibiofibulare Band (PITFL) und das transversale Tibiofibulare Band stabilisiert. Direkt zwischen den benachbarten Oberflächen der Tibia und Fibula befindet sich das interosseöse Band, das sich über die gesamte Länge der Fibula erstreckt.

Das PITFL ist bei weitem das stärkste Band in diesem Komplex und am wenigsten wahrscheinlich zu reißen. Wenn es jedoch einmal gerissen ist, ist es am wahrscheinlichsten mit schweren Rotations- oder Luxationsverletzungen des Sprunggelenks und damit verbundener Sprunggelenkinstabilität verbunden.

Original Intro:

Ankle fracture: Arthrex tightrope for acute syndesmotic injury and Stryker Variax plate for fibula fracture

Learn the Ankle fracture: Arthrex tightrope for acute syndesmotic injury and Stryker Variax plate for fibula fracture surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Ankle fracture: Arthrex tightrope for acute syndesmotic injury and Stryker Variax plate for fibula fracture surgical procedure.

The distal tibiofibular syndesmosis is a unique syndesmotic joint, powerfully bound by a variety of ligaments to maintain the integrity of the ankle mortise. The distal anatomy of the two bones are created in such a way that the medial surface of the distal fibula fits into a groove on the lateral surface of the distal tibia called the incisura fibularis which offers the bony stability to this joint. The anterior part of this joint is stabilised by the Anterior Inferior Distal Tibio-Fibular ligament (AITFL), the posterior aspect by the Posterior Inferior Distal Tibio-Fibular ligament (PITFL) and the transverse Tibio-Fibular ligament. Directly between the contiguous surfaces of the tibia and fibula is the interosseous ligament which extends throughout the length of the fibula.

The PITFL is by far the strongest ligament in this complex and is the least likely to be ruptured. Once ruptured however it is most likely to be associated with severe rotational or dislocating injuries of the ankle and associated ankle instability.

The syndesmotic ligaments  stabilise the fibula with respect to both talus and tibia, whilst allowing a degree of rotation of the fibula, required in particular during full ankle dorsiflexion when the widest portion of the talus comes into the mortise. As with any ligament injury the key point is not solely whether these ligaments have been injured, but rather their stability in determining the need for treatment. If instability is not addressed, high contact pressures at the joints surface ensue and early degenerative change occurs in most patients.

Traditional fixation of unstable syndesmotic injuries has been with two parallel, non-compressive, small fragment screws placed across the ankle at the level of the tibial incisura. Such fixation also requires a decision as to whether the screws need to be removed and furthermore,  the optimal timing for such removal.

The use of a Arthrex tightrope implant, is far more physiological in terms of the way the syndesmosis is held, allowing more normal movement at the ankle mortise. It is a simple and ingenious implant that has proved its worth not only in syndesmotic ankle reconstruction but also in the shoulder and forefoot. It consists of two metal buttons that rest on the respective bony  surfaces to be approximated, and a robust four stranded Fibrewire suture construct which links these buttons. The design allows easy apposition of the buttons towards each other by the effective “slip-knot” set up of the suture strands.

Readers will also find of use the following OrthOracle techniques:

Internal fixation of ankle fracture : Fibula pro-tibia fixation technique with Stryker Variax plate.

Internal fixation of medial malleolar ankle fracture with ASNIS screws

Lateral malleolar fixation using Acumed Fibula Rod System

Postero-lateral plating of pronation-external rotation ankle fracture (posterior malleolar fixation)

Fusion of the syndesmosis for isolated distal tibio-fibular arthritis

Author: Mark Herron FRCS

Institution: The Wellington Hospital, London, UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

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Lernen Sie die chirurgische Technik der Sprunggelenkfraktur: Stabilisierung mit Hoffmann 3 Sprunggelenk-übergreifendem externem Fixateur (Delta-Rahmen) mit schrittweisen Anweisungen auf OrthOracle. Unsere E-Learning-Plattform enthält hochauflösende Bilder und eine zertifizierte Fortbildung (CME) des chirurgischen Verfahrens der Sprunggelenkfraktur: Stabilisierung mit Hoffmann 3 Sprunggelenk-übergreifendem externem Fixateur (Delta-Rahmen).

Die externe Fixation des Sprunggelenks ist ein wesentlicher Eingriff, der für jeden Chirurgen, der akute Traumafälle behandelt, zur Routine werden muss. Obwohl Sprunggelenkfrakturen häufig sind, müssen die meisten nicht mit einem temporären übergreifenden externen Fixateur behandelt werden, da es sich in der Regel um geschlossene Verletzungen niedriger Energie handelt. Sprunggelenk-übergreifende externe Fixateure sind angezeigt bei Verletzungen höherer Energie, bei denen eine “Überbrückung, Untersuchung und Planung” erforderlich ist, d. h. bei einer Pilonfraktur; einer offenen Sprunggelenkfraktur; einer Talusdislokation oder bei Verletzungen mit signifikant traumatisiertem Weichgewebe. Dennoch sollte der erste Schritt in Ihrem Behandlungsalgorithmus eine sofortige Gelenk- / Frakturreduktion und die Anwendung eines Gipsverbandes sein. Bei grob instabilen Verletzungen, solchen, die nicht reduziert werden können, solchen, bei denen die Frakturlänge nicht aufrechterhalten werden kann, oder solchen, die eine Überwachung des Weichgewebes erfordern, ist ein übergreifender externer Fixateur eine bessere Option.

Der Standard des Britischen Orthopädischen Verbandes für Traumata (BOAST) empfiehlt bei instabilen Sprunggelenkfrakturen in der Altersgruppe unter 60 Jahren eine frühzeitige operative Fixierung (d. h. <24 Stunden). Bei der Altersgruppe über 60 Jahren kann, sofern eine zufriedenstellende Reduktion erreicht und aufrechterhalten werden kann, eine enge Kontaktgipsschiene eine Option sein. Die Richtlinien besagen, dass die Verwendung einer externen Fixation bei grober Instabilität in Verbindung mit einer Beeinträchtigung des Weichgewebes selten indiziert sein kann. Dies impliziert daher, dass Patienten mit einer Fraktur-Dislokation, die älter als 24 Stunden ist, nicht reduziert und in einem Gipsverband aufrechterhalten werden kann, für einen übergreifenden Sprunggelenk-externen Fixateur in Betracht gezogen werden sollten. Meiner Erfahrung nach können Patienten zwischen 24 und 48 Stunden eine sich entwickelnde Verletzung haben, und die Schwellung kann noch zunehmen. Dies bedeutet, dass bei Anwendung eines Gipsverbandes dieser aufgrund anhaltender Schwellung gelöst werden muss und die Frakturreduktion verloren geht.

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Original Intro:

Ankle fracture: Stabilisation with Hoffmann 3 Ankle-spanning External Fixator (Delta frame)

by Ross Fawdington FRCS (Tr & Orth)

Learn the Ankle fracture: Stabilisation with Hoffmann 3 Ankle-spanning External Fixator (Delta frame) surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Ankle fracture: Stabilisation with Hoffmann 3 Ankle-spanning External Fixator (Delta frame) surgical procedure.

Ankle external fixation is an essential procedure that needs to be second nature for any surgeon undertaking acute trauma cases. Although ankle fractures are common, the vast majority do not need to be treated with a temporary spanning external fixator because they are usually low energy, closed injuries. Ankle spanning external fixators are indicated for higher energy injuries where there is a need to “span, scan and plan” i.e. a pilon fracture; an open ankle fracture; a talar body dislocation, or those where there are significantly traumatised soft tissues. Having said that, the first step in your treatment algorithm should be immediate joint / fracture reduction and application of a plaster of Paris backslab. In grossly unstable injuries, those that cannot be reduced, those where fracture length cannot be maintained or those that require soft tissue monitoring, then a spanning external fixator is a better option.

The British Orthopaedic Association Standard for Trauma (BOAST) recommends for unstable ankle fractures in the under 60 age group early operative fixation (i.e. < 24 hours). In the over 60 age group,  providing a satisfactory reduction can be achieved and maintained, then a close contact cast is an option. The guidelines state that the use of external fixation may be rarely indicated in the presence of gross instability associated with soft tissue compromise. This therefore implies that patient’s with a fracture dislocation, older than 24 hours that cannot be reduced and maintained in a plaster of Paris, should be considered for a spanning ankle external fixator. It is my experience, that patients between 24-48 hours can have an evolving injury and the swelling may still be on the way up. This means that if a plaster backslab is applied, it may need to be released due to ongoing swelling and the fracture reduction is lost.

There are also a cohort of patients that as the swelling decreases, the plaster backslab becomes loose and the fracture re-displaces and thus the swelling persists. There’s a final group that due to repeated soft tissue inspection, the plaster backslab becomes weaker / looser and again the fracture re-displaces and the swelling persists. In general, if a patient still has significant swelling at day 5 post reduction, then I’d recommend checking with an x-ray, as occasionally the fracture has subluxed and this can also happen while in an external fixator depending on the stability of the construct.

The Hoffmann 3 external fixation system was developed for use in acute trauma, “damage control” orthopaedics and also for definitive fixation. It has a variety of features that make it simple, fast to apply and adaptable for many types of patients and injury patterns. It is indicated for stabilisation of open and/or unstable fractures and where soft tissue injury may preclude the use of other fracture treatments e.g. casts, intramedullary devices or internal fixation. Additional indications include:

• Bone fracture fixation
• Osteotomy
• Arthrodesis
• Correction of deformity
• Revision procedure e.g. infection
• Bone reconstruction procedures

The Hoffmann 3 system is MRI Conditional up to 3.0 Tesla. This means that patient’s with this type of fixator can go into an MRI scanner providing certain conditions are met e.g. the field strength does not exceed 3.0 Tesla, and the MRI scan is performed in accordance with the testing schedule as specified by the manufacturer. The Delta couplings are fully compatible with the Hoffmann II MRI and the Hoffmann II Compact MRI. This means that you can use any combination of 5mm, 8mm and 11mm connecting rods.

OrthOracle readers will also find the following associated operative techniques of interest:

Minimally invasive distal tibial osteotomy and correction of deformity with the Taylor Spatial Frame

Compartment fasciotomy and Hoffmann 3 spanning external fixator for open tibial fracture

Tibial fracture non-union correction using Taylor Spatial Frame (Smith and Nephew)

Tibial shaft fracture: Fixation with a Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) circular external fixator (Smith and Nephew)

Distal radius fracture: Compound injury stabilised with Hoffman II External Fixator

Author: Ross Fawdington FRCS (Tr & Orth)

Institution: The Queen Elisabeth Hospital, Birmingham, UK.

Clinicians should seek clarification on whether any implant demonstrated is licensed for use in their own country.

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Übersetzt aus dem Englischen:

Femurschaftfraktur: Plattenunterstützter Knochentransport mit Hilfe des Precice Bone Transport Nail (Nuvasive)

Lernen Sie die chirurgische Technik der Femurschaftfraktur: Plattenunterstützter Knochentransport mit Hilfe des Precice Bone Transport Nail (Nuvasive) mit schrittweisen Anweisungen auf OrthOracle. Unsere E-Learning-Plattform enthält hochauflösende Bilder und eine zertifizierte Fortbildung (CME) des chirurgischen Verfahrens der Femurschaftfraktur: Plattenunterstützter Knochentransport mit Hilfe des Precice Bone Transport Nail (Nuvasive).

Die Behandlung schwerer offener Frakturen mit Knochendefekten kann äußerst herausfordernd sein. In den meisten Fällen kann eine erfolgreiche Extremitätenrettung erreicht werden, aber Komplikationen wie Nichtverheilung oder tiefe Infektionen sind nicht ungewöhnlich. Während offene Frakturen und Frakturen mit Knochendefekten häufiger im Tibia vorkommen, treten diese Frakturen auch im Femur auf, wo sie oft auf sehr hohe Energieverletzungen hinweisen. Die für eine offene Fraktur im Femur erforderliche Kraft ist aufgrund der umlaufenden Muskulaturabdeckung des Femurs erheblich größer als die im Tibia.

Original Intro:

Femoral shaft fracture: Plate assisted bone transport using Precice Bone transport nail (Nuvasive)

Learn the Femoral shaft fracture: Plate assisted bone transport using Precice Bone transport nail (Nuvasive) surgical technique with step by step instructions on OrthOracle. Our e-learning platform contains high resolution images and a certified CME of the Femoral shaft fracture: Plate assisted bone transport using Precice Bone transport nail (Nuvasive) surgical procedure.

The management of severe open fractures with bone loss can be extremely challenging.  In the majority of cases successful limb salvage can be achieved but complications such as non-union or deep infection are not uncommon.  Whilst open fractures and fractures with bone loss are more common in the tibia these fractures also occur in the femur where they often signify very high energy injuries. The force required to produce an open fracture in the femur is considerably more than in the tibia due to the circumferential muscle coverage of the femur.

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